New Delhi, April 30 -- The US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged in the range of 3.5 per cent to 3.75 per cent at its latest policy meeting, even as four officials dissented and ongoing developments in West Asia added to uncertainty over the economic outlook.

In its statement, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) said it decided "to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 3 1/2 to 3 3/4 per cent," while noting that future policy decisions will depend on incoming data, evolving outlook and balance of risks.

The central bank reiterated its commitment to achieving maximum employment and bringing inflation back to its 2 per cent target over the longer run.

Voting in favour of the decision were Jerome H. Powel...